Diet plays a significant role in the prevention and treatment of various diseases. Though the list of diet-related diseases is vast, some of the most common and serious include osteoporosis, heart disease and certain forms of cancer. To prevent or help treat any one of these conditions, a healthy, balanced dietary lifestyle is recommended.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis causes brittle bones and reduced posture, primarily among elderly adults. According to Purdue University, osteoporosis begins in early adulthood, when bones start to gradually lose needed calcium. By the time women reach menopause, 1 in 4 have osteoporosis, which causes "shrinkage," or reduced posture and height, and is the primary cause of serious hip and wrist fractures in older women.
Osteoporosis can be prevented or reduced by increasing calcium in the diet. Other dietary factors that contribute to osteoporosis prevention include intake of vitamins C and D, which are necessary for proper absorption of calcium, and adhering to modest or appropriate consumption of dietary fats and protein, as excessive intake of either can speed the effects of osteoporosis. Consuming plenty of nutrients as well as adequate calories are valuable in preventing osteoporosis as well, as underweight individuals are at heightened risk.
Heart Disease
Heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure (hypertension), heart attack and stroke are significantly correlated to diet. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), a healthy diet is an invaluable tool in fighting and preventing such illnesses, which are leading causes of death in the U.S.
Foods that help prevent heart disease include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat protein sources and healthy fats such as plant-based oils, nuts and seeds. The AHA also suggests consuming fatty fish, such as tuna or salmon, at least twice per week for best results. Foods that hinder heart health include saturated fats found in red meat, dark-meat poultry, butter, whole milk and eggs, and trans fats, which are found in margarine, shortening, hydrogenated vegetable oils and most commercially-prepared snack foods such as pastries, cookies, chips and pie crust. For further dietary benefits, reduce added sugars which are found in soft drinks, candy and other sweets, and control portion sizes.
Cancer
Diet also plays a role in the prevention, development and treatment of certain forms of cancer. According to Purdue University, a high-fat diet is associated with heightened risk for colon cancer, the leading life-threatening cancer in the U.S. and breast cancer, the cancer with the highest mortality rate amongst American women. In addition, obesity, a common result of excessive overeating or unhealthy dietary lifestyle, is associated with high risk for breast and endometrial cancers.
To reap anti-cancer benefits from your diet, consume a variety of fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources and modest amounts of healthy fats on a regular, consistent basis. Avoid deep-fried foods and foods high in added sugar for additional benefits. The American Heart Association suggests regular physical activity coupled with a healthy dietary lifestyle for optimum wellness and as a means of preventing diet-related diseases.
